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NewsYourobserverJune 24, 2026Manatee

Mike Harrison Announces Candidacy for Manatee County Commission District 1

Myakka City resident and farrier Mike Harrison is running for the District 1 seat on the Manatee County Commission. He is campaigning on a platform of slowing rural development and improving infrastructure in underserved areas like Myakka City and Parrish.

electionsland usedevelopmentManatee Countyrural affairs
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Why It Matters

Residents of District 1 will vote in a Republican primary on August 18 to determine who will represent their interests regarding land-use zoning, infrastructure maintenance, and rural development policies.

Key Facts

  • The Republican primary election for the Manatee County Commission District 1 seat is scheduled for August 18.
  • Mike Harrison is running for the seat previously held by the late Carol Ann Felts.
  • Harrison's primary platform focus is managing and limiting development in rural areas of Manatee County.
  • Harrison currently serves as the pastor of the New Wine Worship Center and president of the Florida Cracker Trail Association.
  • Harrison advocates for prioritizing infrastructure repairs on specific roads, including Wauchula Road and County Road 675.
  • Harrison cites concerns regarding the relocation of gopher tortoises due to development in District 1.
  • The candidate field for the Republican primary includes Elizabeth Arnold, John Dunn, Mike Harrison, Adam Johnson, Mark Stanoch, and Leland Taylor.

Who's Mentioned

personMike Harrison“Candidate for Manatee County Commission District 1”personLeland Taylor“Republican primary candidate for District 1”personElizabeth Arnold“Republican primary candidate for District 1”organizationNew Wine Worship Center“Organization where Harrison serves as pastor”personCarol Ann Felts“Late commissioner whose seat is being contested”organizationManatee County Commission“Local governing body”personJohn Dunn“Republican primary candidate for District 1”personAdam Johnson“Republican primary candidate for District 1”personMark Stanoch“Republican primary candidate for District 1”organizationFlorida Cracker Trail Association“Organization where Harrison serves as president”